In this course, you will journey through the web of physical, chemical, and biological reactions that collectively constitute photosynthesis. We will begin with light harvesting and follow photons to the sites of primary photochemistry: the photoreaction centers. A molecular-scale view will show in atomic detail how these protein complexes capture and energize electrons. Then we will follow the multiple pathways electrons take as they carry out their work. Consequent reactions, such as the synthesis of ATP and the reduction of CO2 during the synthesis of carbohydrates, will also be discussed in structural detail. Lastly, we will delve into the evolution of these systems and also discuss other photosynthetic strategies, such as light-driven proton pumps and anoxygenic photosynthesis. The course will include a visit to an electron microscope to allow students to directly observe proteins involved in photosynthesis. This course is one of many Advanced Undergraduate Seminars offered by the Biology Department at MIT. These seminars are tailored for students with an interest in using primary research literature to discuss and learn about current biological research in a highly interactive setting. Many instructors of the Advanced Undergraduate Seminars are postdoctoral scientists with a strong interest in teaching.
The Stromatolite Explorer video describes an imaginary voyage inside a microbial mat. This Teacherʼs guide contains a more detailed explanation of a number of the concepts discussed in the video, including the graphs presented in the video. The animated video takes students on a journey through a microbial mat. The assigned mission is to probe a microbial mat by following an imaginary 0.10 mm stromatolite explorer as it descends through the layers. On its route, the vehicle takes chemical readings and images of each layer. It addresses the history of microbial mats, their interest to NASA and astrobiology, and the different metabolic activities occurring at each level. The video is seven minutes in length. If you experience difficulty opening the video from the website, right-click and select "save target as." This will allow you to save it to your computer and it should easily open.
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